Holzhauser has revealed negotiations are still some way off completion, but is eager to see the protracted transfer saga brought to a close quickly in order to begin planning for next season

"Last year we had an enquiry, but it came very late," he was quoted as saying on Fifa's offical website.

"This time it is still relatively early, which is good. Andre is, alongside Mario Gotze, one of the best young players in Germany and if he leaves us, we will want cover for him. We want clarity as soon as possible.

"We are still quite a long way apart in terms of certain details. There are always two options: either Andre stays here or he leaves."